The Kohima District Task Force (DTF) on Single-Use Plastic (SUP) convened at the Deputy Commissioner’s Conference Hall, Kohima, on 29 July 2024. The meeting, led by Deputy Commissioner and DTF Chairman Kohima Kumar Ramnikant IAS, focused on the enforcement of the Nagaland Government’s ban on single-use plastics, set to take effect on August 1, 2024.
Ramnikant highlighted the need for robust implementation of the Government’s directive to eliminate single-use plastics from Kohima. To ensure effective enforcement, the DTF on SUP resolved to hold quarterly meetings, starting with a comprehensive review of the ban’s progress.
A formal order will soon be issued by the DTF on SUP, Kohima, enforcing a complete ban on single-use plastic carry bags and single-use plastic bottles for water and soft drinks below one liter. The order will detail fines and penalties for non-compliance.
Two Inspection Teams will be formed to monitor and curb the sale of banned SUP items in Kohima Town. The first inspection is slated for around August 10, 2024. The Kohima Municipal Council (KMC) will oversee the disposal of any seized SUP items.
Administrative Officers at the Sub-Divisional level will be responsible for implementing the ban within their respective areas, ensuring uniform compliance across the district.
To raise public awareness, All India Radio and DDK Kohima, in collaboration with KMC Kohima, will provide extensive media coverage of the SUP ban. Additionally, the DPRO Kohima will use the Public Address System to announce the ban in various colonies and wards of Kohima Town.
The meeting stressed the importance of stringent enforcement measures, particularly for Stockists and Main Suppliers of SUP items. Regular checks and monitoring will be conducted to ensure compliance and promote a plastic-free Kohima.